Body of Missing Woman Found Near South Lake Tahoe

STATELINE, NV - Douglas County deputies have confirmed the remains of 19-year-old Alyssa Byrne have been found.

The investigation into her death is still underway, but investigators think Alyssa opted to walk instead of taking a shuttle during the Snow Globe Festival, and the bitter cold temperatures could have played a role in her death.

Her body was found off Pioneer Trail near South Lake Tahoe by a utility worker, very close to Lake Tahoe Community College.

Alyssa Byrne had driven with three friends from Petaluma, California to attend the SnowGlobe Music Festival, but then she disappeared early on New Year's Day. That festival was held at the college.

Police say a call or text was placed from Alyssa's phone later than earlier reported. But investigators say it does not mean the phone was in Alyssa's possession.

Also, tweets from a Twitter user by the name of "Alyssa Byrne One" posted these messages on New Year's Eve: "After tonight, you'll never be a part of my life," and... "just lost all my trust in the person I trusted most." Right now, investigators aren't jumping to any conclusions about the tweets.

Investigators do not suspect foul play.

Alyssa's friends notified authorities she was missing late New Year's night. Crews from Douglas County, El Dorado County, South Lake Tahoe Police Department, and the FBI are now looking for the 19-year-old. They're combing the woods, the area around the SnowGlobe venue, the casinos, and even looking through casino surveillance video.

About a dozen of Alyssa's friends from her hometown have driven up to Tahoe to pass out flyers.

"I was walking down the street from the hotel and I saw flyers on every pole. A lot of people know about it in the hotels and everyone's doing their share. If you look on Instagram, Facebook, it's insane about how much everybody's really caring," says Nathan Tubbs, a childhood friend.

"I want everyone to know that she's a wonderful kid," says Kevin Byrne, her father. "We love her, we miss her, she's one of the brightest people I've ever met.... And she's just a good kid."

Alyssa still lived at home with her parents and older brother. Another reason her family thinks that she wouldn't run away: she has a tattoo on her left wrist, saying "I love Mom, Dad, and my dog.

If you know anything that can help investigators, call Douglas County Secret Witness at 775-78-CRIME.

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